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| - I was really happy with my labor and delivery experience at Scottsdale Shea. I transferred from a birthing center at the 38-week mark, but still wanted an all-natural birth sans interventions and pain meds. Due to the last minute nature of the switch, I knew the OB on call would be the one delivering my baby.
I first chose the hospital based on the amenities. Having seen St Joe's and not being thrilled with the sterile, hospital-like environment, I fell in love with the serenity of Scottsdale Shea's birthing ward. They have jetted tubs in each room, birthing balls, spacious rooms with soft lighting, good room service, and a spa downstairs with a masseuse who can come up to your room. After the tour, I was sold. I actually went out-of-network on my insurance because I had such a strong preference for this hospital (and by the way, the OB pre-registration made everything pretty easy in terms of paperwork and explaining the upfront costs).
The staff was also super friendly. I was pretty nervous that they'd want to push various interventions on me, but they were actually wonderful about honoring my birthing plan (which in hindsight read like the most ridiculous plan ever). I remember nurses Missy and Eileen being particularly kind about my intentions. As to the doctors, I had Dr. MacMillan and Dr. Doan. I adored both of them and felt very fortunate that they handled my care.
I should also say that I had a marathon labor session and finally got an epidural at 7 cm after 30 hours of contractions and basically no sleep for the past two nights. Before then, however, the staff had to tolerate my literal screams--super embarrassing but they were great about it. I also appreciated that they never approached me for an epidural; rather I to the staff. Post-epidural, I found the birth to be a beautiful, highly enjoyable experience.
Only downsides--there were a few hospital policies with which I disagreed. For one, no food during labor. I think this is a little antiquated, and I wasn't one to buy the line, "in case you have a c-section, and in case you undergo anesthesia, and in case you throw up, and in case you happen to choke on the vomit...." but, they are correct in saying one isn't too hungry during active labor anyway. Other downside was the pushing technique, which I also found old-fashioned: it's basically a 'spread-eagle in stirrups, tuck-your-neck-under and do crunches while pushing' style. I did this for two hours, and was totally bedridden and unable to walk for three days after birth because it pulled something in my neck and shoulders and I got a headache from hell. The staff said it could've been a headache from the epidural going in too deep as well... but in either case, it's something I felt could've been prevented. They also strap you to a monitor for 20 mins every hour, which I know is common practice... but it definitely isn't fun if you're trying to handle contractions without pain meds.
All in all, though, I loved my experience and, if in the cards, would deliver at Scottsdale Shea again in a heartbeat.
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